NY data show 500,000 licensed drivers over age 80

Of New York’s 11.2 million licensed drivers, 4.5 percent, or 500,000, were over the age of 80 last year.

That group was involved in only 2 percent or 11,000 of accidents statewide the year before, though they did make up 5 percent of the drivers in fatal crashes.

More older drivers are on the road than ever before, and a review by The Associated Press found they face a hodgepodge of state licensing laws that reflect scientific uncertainty and public angst over a growing question: How can we tell if it’s time to give up the keys?

New York licenses, valid up to eight years, have no special blanket conditions for seniors. A vision test is required for renewals and the Department of Motor Vehicles can, on “reasonable grounds,” re-evaluate drivers whose skills and abilities are in doubt.